The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, on Monday met with Iganga District leadership from various sectors. The purpose of the meeting was to understand why Busoga, particularly Iganga, is still underdeveloped.
Hon. Kadaga thanked the organization that invited her as the chief guest and expressed her gratitude to those who contributed their ideas during the meeting. She also acknowledged the efforts of the Iganga District leadership, particularly the LCV Chairman, for his hard work in acquiring Busoga University and thanked President Museveni for endorsing Busoga’s pledge.
Hon. Kadaga emphasized the importance of the Iganga community investing in their own development, particularly through building local businesses rather than selling their land to outsiders. She explained that this approach would help the community overcome poverty, especially as Busoga University brings in more people to Iganga. Kadaga also spoke about the Iganga Central Market, mentioning that she had discussed it with the Ministry of Local Government, represented by Raphael Magezi, and promised that improvements would be made before February.
She concluded by addressing the GROW (Gender Responsive Opportunities for Women) fund, which is not operating effectively due to unfavorable conditions for women. She urged President Museveni to ease security restrictions and make the program more affordable, so that women across the country can fully benefit.
The Chairman of Iganga District, Gabula Ezra, thanked the Right Hon. Kadaga for her consistent efforts on behalf of Busoga’s progress, highlighting initiatives like the Busoga Consortium, Busoga University, the development of cities, and the establishment of central markets. He also addressed those who believe they can defeat Kadaga as a member of the Cabinet, stating that Busoga’s leadership will continue to support her and work together to ensure success for the region.
The Chairman of the Iganga Business Community, Wanansi David, also expressed gratitude to Kadaga for her ongoing support of Busoga. However, he raised concerns about the lack of unity among Busoga leaders, with some being hypocritical towards others, which hinders development. He also spoke about the difficulty in attracting investors to the region and urged Kadaga to lobby for investors who could bring large-scale business opportunities to Busoga
Other attendees included the Iganga RDC Hajj Wandera Sadara, Deputy RDC Kato Dauda, the Chief of Bunole Bunanumba Chiefdom Nassanga Jacklin Obba, former LCV Chairman Kayemba Patrick, and various political leaders from Iganga District.
These visits will continue across different districts of Busoga, including Namutumba, Mayuge, and others, to gather a comprehensive report on how to combat poverty in Busoga through government initiatives.
